Re: Security System

[Mr. Gibbage <MrGibbage@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Robert L Bass <sales@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx> wrote:

>> So, if I go out and buy, say, an Elk M1, will I be able
>> to control my security system with it?  Would it just
>> replace the controllers, or would I have some work to
>> do in the black box as well?
>
>The ELK M1Gold is a security system as well as a home automation
>controller.  It does a great job as an alarm.  It is also capable
>of reading and operating all sorts of HA related devices.
>
>Elk supports numerous lighting protocols, including UPB, Z-Wave,
>ALC, Centralite, etc., so you won't likely wind up with an
>obsolete system when the protocol war is over.
>
>It currently supports HAI, Aprilaire and RCS communicating
>thermostats, but it will also support Z-Wave enabled stats when
>they become available.
>
>One of the things I like about dealing with ELK Products is they
>are extremely responsive to dealer requests.  If several dealers
>ask them to add a feature ELK will do it and include it in the
>next firmware release.
>
>Speaking of firmware releases (ie, upgrades), ELK makes these
>available via free download directly from their website.  Almost
>every other manufacturer, including HAI, charges a fee for
>replacement chips.  Need a new lighting protocol added?  Elk will
>add it to the lighting control interface or, if you're so
>inclined, you can develop your own and implement it directly on
>the ELK.
>
>Most manufacturers, including HAI, charge a hefty fee for the
>software which you need to configure and diagnose the system.
>Elk includes it free with the controller if you DIY.  Upgrades
>are free via their website.
>
>HAI and Elk both offer Internet connectivity.  HAI charges a
>significant fee for their software (not the same as the
>configuration software).  With Elk it's included.
>
>HAI, like most HA controllers, can read each zone (sensor
>circuit) status as "open" or "shorted".  Elk does the same but
>Elk also does analog.  It can read  and compare different
>temperature, humidity and pressure sensors and make decisions
>based on complex logical comparisons.
>
>--
>
>Regards,
>Robert L Bass
>
>Bass Burglar Alarms
>The Online DIY Store
>http://www.BassBurglarAlarms.com
Thanks for the very informative post.  I am seriously considering
going this route (ELK).  Unfortunately, I am kinda stuck with
installing the security system that the builder chooses.  I don't mind
ripping it out and replacing it with a system of my own.  I do have a
few questions still:
1.  The system that he is installing comes with a year of free
monitoring.  If I install a different system, will I still be a ble to
use the free (and paid for) monitoring?  (Not really a show
stopper--I'm just curious.)  I assume that all the security system
does is call a pre-programmed number, so the guy at the other end
probably doesn't care what system on my end made the call. Or does the
system pass some kind of data to the monitoring service that my new
system would have to understand.  Do I need more information about the
system that the builder is installing for you to answer these
questions?
2.  The sensor switches at the doors and windows--I assume that these
are probably nothing more than simple normally open or normally closed
swtiches, right?  I envision that some security systems are designed
with NO switches and some are desigend with NC switches.  I do not
know what my system will use.  Is the ELK smart enough to use either
type?  I'd really like to use the installed switches.  I see this as a
definite go/no-go for me.  If I can't use the installed switches, then
I really won't be able to do this.
3.  Obviuosly, the switches all terminate at the actual security
system ("black box" from my OP).  From there, there must be some type
of wiring that connects the system to the remote keypads.  How is that
typically done.  Most likely, where the builder is putting his
keypads,  will want to put my own keypad/touchpad.  What are the
chances that I will be able to use his wiring for this?  What should I
ask to builder to put in the area of the keypads?  RG6? CAT5? 120 VAC?
Same goes for the area where the security system panel is mounted.
4.  Last question.  I would also like to install a camera or two.
Perhaps one at the front door.  What type of camera and wiring will
best work? RG6? CAT5?  Will I need power there too?  What is the best
way to use and implement a front door camera?  I'd love to be able to
push a button on a remote control for any tv or open a window on any
computer in the house or see on the touch screens and see who is at
the door.

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